I think we'll be able to recall Deacon should he be fit, but we have to work on the assumption he will miss out.
I can't comment on whether it should have been Phelps or Roberts to replace Deacon based on form but I will say this, Phelps brings us more options i.e. he could have played full back or stand off, and has an okay kicking game (though far from brilliant) and I also see Phelps as a safer option in that he's more consistent. Roberts is a confidence player and if he doesn't have much, he could have a shocker, where as I think Phelps would be steady.
I'm also of the opinion that we should do as least disruption to the team as possible when replacing Deacon, so given the squad we've announced I'd go with Sam at 6 and Roberts at full back, leaving Richards on the wing. We've enough outside back options to suggest that if Roberts wasn't 100% fit, he wouldn't be selected, and his best performances in a Wigan shirt have come at 1, and Pat is undoubtedly better outside Carmont, so that's the way it should stay.
Tuson and either Davies or Prescott to miss out for me, probably Davies since Maguire seems relecutant to give him a full run out whenever he is selected, and it is essential we have 4 fully charged props for the rest of the play off compaign. Having calmed down a little from Sunday, I'd also start Joel, hopefully gifting Leeds 2 points that ultimately won them the game will make him see he needs to be a lot smater and more disciplined.
I'd also start Hansen, Fielden and Coley in the pack too in the hopes of getting off to an absolute flier, and trying to kill some of KR's enthusiasm and confidence.
To summarise then:
Roberts
Goulding
Gleeson
Carmont
Richards
S Tomkins
Leuluai
Fielden
Riddell
Coley
J Tomkins
Hansen
O'Loughlin
McIlorum
Farrell
Paleaaesina
Prescott